Level 2 heat advisory declared

Metro Health gives tips on how to stay healthy when it's this hot this long.

By Don Finleydfinley@express-news.net

Updated 11:14 pm, Friday, August 12, 2011

Photo: KEVIN MARTIN, KEVIN MARTIN/kmartin@express-news.net

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Whit Pharr's dogs, Lola (right) and Haden pull him on a skateboard, something Pharr says they do every evening.

Whit Pharr's dogs, Lola (right) and Haden pull him on a skateboard, something Pharr says they do every evening.

Photo: KEVIN MARTIN, KEVIN MARTIN/kmartin@express-news.net

Level 2 heat advisory declared

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City health officials issued a Level 2 heat advisory for the area Friday, warning that conditions are ripe for heat-related injuries and deaths.

“Everybody in San Antonio is used to heat, but when it gets this hot, people have to be extra-cautious, not only for themselves, but for their families and friends and neighbors,” said Dr. Thomas Schlenker, director of the Metropolitan Health District. “And especially the elderly and infirm.”

People who experience dizziness, nausea, muscle cramps or headache while in the sun should stop what they're doing and find a cooler place to rest and rehydrate. If symptoms don't improve, seek medical attention. Children 4 and younger, the elderly and the overweight are at greatest risk of heat-related problems, but even some medications can make healthy people sensitive to heat.

The advisory offered the following advice:

People whose houses are without air conditioning should consider spending time in malls or public libraries during the hottest part of the day, typically between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Restricting strenuous activities to the early morning or the evening, when temperatures are lower, can help.

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If people do have to go out in the heat, they should consider using an umbrella, hat and sunscreen; wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothes; and find shade often. Avoid drinks containing alcohol or caffeine.

Check on elderly neighbors and relatives often. And don't leave anyone — human or animal — unattended in a hot car, even if it's running with the air conditioning on. Outdoor pets should have plenty of fresh, clean water and shade.

A Level 2 advisory is declared when the daytime heat index reaches 105 degrees or above and temperatures aren't expected to fall below 80 degrees for two consecutive days.

The United Way offers box fans and heat-related information for the elderly by calling 211. For utilities assistance, call CPS Energy at (210) 353-2222. For medical emergencies, call 911.